Wednesday, January 11, 2012

VEES MAKE A SPLASH ON DEADLINE DAY

Press Release

PENTICTON, BC– The Penticton Vees Hockey Club has acquired 18 year-old forward Wade Murphy from the Victoria Grizzlies in exchange for 17 year-old forward Mark McLellan and Future Considerations.

Murphy is playing his second full season in the BCHL, and was the Grizzlies top scorer with 22 goals and 62 points in 38 games; good enough for fourth in BCHL scoring. Last season Murphy put up 16 points in 56 games while predominantly playing a checking role for a Grizzlies team that was deep at the forward position.

The right-winger is having a career year after having the opportunity to showcase his talents on Victoria’s top line. His play this season earned him a scholarship to Merrimack College in the fall of 2013. In 100 career games that span just over two seasons, Murphy has 32 goals and 82 points.


The offensive abilities of Murphy are a welcome addition to the Vees forward depth but Head Coach Fred Harbinson sees more than the points total with Murphy.

“Wade no question is a dynamic offensive talent and the points he put up in Victoria reflect that. In saying that, we feel his compete level, work ethic and determination on and off the ice is what we value and feel will be a perfect fit in Penticton.”

McLellan, a Surrey native, is in his first season in the BCHL after making the Vees squad out of Main Camp. The 17 year-old came from the Valley West Hawks Major in the BC Major Midget League. The left-winger played in 33 games for the Vees, scoring once and adding seven assists.

McLellan captained the West Hawks last season, where he amassed seven goals and 27 points in 35 games leading the West Hawks to a 28-8-8 record.

“It was a very difficult to part with a player of Mark’s caliber and character. In a deal such as this, we had to depart with a valuable piece in our future. Mark was the captain of his Midget team and that speaks volumes to the type of young man he is. He is going to a program that will give him a great opportunity for him to be a key piece in their future going forward.”

The Penticton Vees Hockey Club would like to welcome Wade Murphy to the team and the South Okanagan; the Vees would also like to thank Mark for his contributions to the team, and wish him all the best in his future with the Victoria Grizzlies.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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